East Hills Dental Associates Blog

TMJ Disorder: Will it get worse with stress?

If you have been experiencing frequent headaches, neck pain, or tension near the ears and temples, you may have assumed that the pain was just the normal result of a stressful life. Family situations, workplace challenges, financial concerns, and even rigorous exercise routines are the source of much of the stress in our lives.

Ideally, if you could simply make the stress go away, perhaps the headaches and tension would disappear also. Unfortunately, while some types of stress can occur periodically, other forms of stress become a regular part of our lives. As the tension is allowed to manifest, you may not realize that it can affect your jaw joint (TMJ) as well as your bite.

With help from a dentist who has experience in treating bite-related TMJ Disorders and associated problems, you may be able to find relief from your discomfort even when the source of the stress cannot be eliminated. Seeking professional help rather than purchasing an over-the-counter bite guard is the best way to ensure that the condition is being treated properly.

For patients who have suffered with an existing bite-related or TMJ disorder, stress can exaggerate the condition. For those patients who may not have experienced bite-related problems in the past, stress can trigger the onset of such conditions. Both physical and mental stress can lead to increased tension and stress on the joint. It can also contribute to constant clenching and grinding of the teeth, a habit that can damage the joint as well as the teeth, gums, and underlying bone structure.

Popping, clicking, and pain in the jaw joint should never be ignored. Identifying the source of the discomfort and seeking the appropriate solution is essential to finding relief and protecting your health.

For a consultation with our dentist, who has extensive training in craniomandibular disorders and is one of the most respected TMJ specialty practitioners in the world, call the office of Dr. Richard Sousa, serving Nassau County, at 516-484-6600 today to schedule a consultation.

This entry was posted on Friday, August 17th, 2012 at 6:38 pm by East Hills Dental Associates.
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